Dachshund Guide: Size, Temperament, Care and Health for Adopters

Dachshund history and overview

Dachshund history points to Germany as the country of origin, and the name comes from words meaning badger and dog. The American Kennel Club places the breed in the Hound Group and also lists Germany as its origin. The breed was developed to pursue prey in tunnels and burrows, which explains the long body and short legs. Smooth and long-haired types were covered by the name as early as the 17th century, and the wirehair variety was recognized later.

Dachshund size and weight

The AKC places the Dachshund in the small size category. For a full size dachshund, the AKC publishes a height of 8-9 inches and a weight of 16-32 pounds, while miniatures stand 5-6 inches and weigh 11 pounds and under.

Dachshund temperament and personality

The AKC describes the dachshund temperament with the words curious, friendly and spunky. VCA describes them as confident, often independent dogs that bond strongly with their owners, sometimes favoring one primary person. A strong prey drive may lead them to chase small animals.

Exercise needs

Daily activity matters for these dogs, yet it should be kept controlled so the spine is protected, and walks plus structured play suit them well. Jumping and other high-strain activities should be limited, and access to stairs restricted.

Do dachshunds shed? Grooming by coat type

The AKC rates shedding for the breed at 2 of 5 and grooming frequency at 2 of 5. Smooth-coated dogs need minimal brushing, while longhaired and wirehaired varieties benefit from more frequent grooming. For long haired dachshund grooming, the breed standard describes silky, slightly wavy hair with feathering on the ears and behind the legs. Regular ear cleaning and routine nail trimming are also recommended.

Training

The AKC rates trainability at 4 of 5. Dachshunds are intelligent but independent, and short, engaging sessions with rewards are usually most effective.

Dachshund health issues, lifespan and life expectancy

Because of the long back, spinal health is the biggest concern, and being overweight or doing high-impact activity raises the chance of disc disease. Keeping a healthy weight, limiting jumping and watching for changes in mobility can help reduce long-term complications.

The AKC gives a general dachshund lifespan of 12-16 years.

Considering dachshund rescue or adoption

These dogs are happiest in households that understand and make room for their physical structure. VCA notes they adapt well to most living spaces and suit most consistent owners.